Equestrian Sports New Zealand is using the Horse of the Year Show to launch its FEI World Equestrian Games #backingblack campaign.

High performance operations’ Warrick Allan says 2018 WEG is stacking up to be one like no other. “We are extremely excited about this year, particularly with the strong possibility we will have teams in eventing, showjumping, dressage and endurance,” says Allan.

“It would history-making to have a dressage team there. Our showjumpers have been in searing form of late and our eventers are always very strong, so fingers crossed this will be a memorable WEG for us.”

ESNZ are releasing a supporters’ clothing line, including polo tops, hoodies, jackets and caps, which will be unveiled at HOY, and available through the website.

Seek out the ESNZ tent at HOY to get your photo taken in the #backingblack photo booth too and while you there sign a message of support of the big “Backing Black Supporters Banner”, which will be taken to Tryon for the team to enjoy. The first person to come into the ESNZ Tent to sign the banner will get a free Blacking Black cap

All funds raised through the clothing sales will go towards the WEG campaign costs which sit at around $800,000 for showjumping, endurance and dressage.

“We want everyone to get on board our 2018 WEG campaign,” says Allan. He’s encouraging people to use the #backingblack hash tag, which will be attached to all WEG-related stories going forward.